​The Future of Retail Starts Upstream: AI, Strategy, and Smarter Selling

​Retail is no longer just about what happens at the point-of-sale. The real transformation is happening upstream—before a product ever hits the shelves. From product development and merchandising to wholesale strategy and inventory planning, AI and data are empowering brands and retailers to make smarter decisions earlier in the process.

​Join us for a conversation on how AI is reshaping trend forecasting, B2B personalization, sustainable production, and the digital wholesale experience. This panel will explore how brands can future-proof their business by optimizing every stage of the value chain—and why the most successful retailers are now thinking like tech companies.

​Moderator:

​Matilda Kalaveshi, Head of Mana Fashion.

​Panelists:

​Tim Baxter, Former CEO of EXPRESS

​Tim Baxter has served as our Chief Executive Officer since June 2019. Prior to joining Express, Baxter was Chief Executive Officer of Delta Galil Premium Brands, a group of specialty retail apparel brands including 7 For All Mankind and Splendid. Prior to that, he held numerous leadership positions at Macy’s from 2006 to 2017 including Chief Merchandising Officer from 2015 to 2017 and Executive Vice President, General Merchandise Manager from 2013 for 2015. Baxter started his career with Famous-Barr and May Department Stores, where he held positions of increasing responsibility from 1992 to 2006.

​Raphael Camp, CEO Comexposium USA

​Raphael Camp is the Managing Director of Comexposium USA. Camp has over 20 years of experience in the fashion and retail industries. His extensive knowledge and experience make him an invaluable asset to developing B2B platforms in the US. Before joining the group, Raphael held several executive positions at Orientis Group. He served as COO of Kusmi Tea America, where he was instrumental in expanding the brand's footprint in the region and establishing it as a leading retail brand. As the leader of one of the critical events in the fashion industry, Raphael plays a crucial role in shaping the future of intimate apparel and swimwear. His deep understanding of the industry and retail makes him a thought leader, and a driving force behind its continued growth and success.

​Julie Evans, Founder & CEO Sustalytics

​Julie Evans is an expert in fashion and technology with over a decade of industry experience. Starting in fashion buying and design, including a four-year role as Head of Buying & Design at Zara, she pivoted to sustainable tech, founding Sustalytics, an AI-driven company that helps retailers forecast bestsellers and reduce waste. Julie’s innovative approach with generative AI enhances the fashion supply chain, making her a sought-after speaker at events like Premiere Vision in both Paris & NYC and Sourcing at Magic, Las Vegas. Known for her expertise in visual recognition and product strategy, she consults globally, guiding brands to implement AI for streamlined operations and stronger consumer engagement.

​Tatiana Ferreira, Founder & CEO HarmonIQ

​Tatiana Ferreira is a transformation executive who bridges consumer experience expertise with AI and technology innovation. Drawing on her 20+ years of leadership at iconic brands including Louis Vuitton, Neiman Marcus, and Disney, where she managed $1.5B P&Ls and drove market-leading growth, Tatiana specializes in implementing practical solutions that deliver measurable results in retail and consumer-driven industries. As investor and principal retail advisor for Aurora's AI Retail Accelerator and founder of HarmonIQ Consulting & Advisory, she helps companies identify high-impact use cases for AI that enhance customer engagement, streamline operations, and create sustainable competitive advantage.